J-PAL Research Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 5 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at J-PAL.
J-PAL
Research Assistant
Entry Easy Positive experience Accept offer 3 rounds
Interview process
Technical screen Recruiter call
Interview formats
Technical Behavioral
It was 3 interviews total, not that hard. There was a STATA test and questions about my motivation. Honestly, the whole thing wasn't really tough, and knowing about the local context was a big plus. Working here can be stressful sometimes, but it's the meaning behind it all that keeps me going.
Confirmed questions3 questions
- Can you share details about your personal background?
- Please describe your educational history.
- What do you know regarding the research topic?
J-PAL
Research Assistant
Entry Easy Negative experience Decline offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Take home Technical screen
Interview formats
Case Behavioral
The whole setup felt like a red flag for bad working conditions. They advertised a part-time role but expected a full-time commitment, which is ridiculous. It seemed like their priority was to impress grant providers with their activity rather than focusing on the actual research.
Confirmed questions2 questions
- Complete a written test including a case study with questions.
- Participate in a one-on-one interview.
J-PAL
Research Assistant
Entry Average Positive experience No offer 3 rounds
Interview process
Take home Technical screen Recruiter call Phone screen Onsite
Interview formats
Technical Coding Other
after submitting CV and transcripts and cover letter, successful applicants are contacted and asked to write a competency test. The test asks both quantitative (programming) and qualitative questions. If you pass the test you will be contacted for a first round interview. Then, if first interview is successful you will be invited to a final interview.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What is your experience with impact evaluations?
J-PAL Research Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from J-PAL interview reports.
“What is your level of familiarity with Stata?”
Read reports →“Can you discuss technical questions related to evaluation methods?”
Read reports →“What do you know regarding the research topic?”
Read reports →“What is your experience with impact evaluations?”
Read reports →“Tell me about a time you experienced conflict within a group. (Behavioral question)”
Read report →“Can you share details about your personal background?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 5 J-PAL interview reports.